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Missouri Cannabis Education
What Do I Need to Know About Traveling with Cannabis in Missouri?
The best products to bring, local regulations, and possession limits. by Leah Maurer, contributing writer
Leah
Leah Maurer, a native Missourian, is a canna journalist and activist living in Portland, OR. She is a co-owner of The Weed Blog www. theweedblog. com Co-Owner 420-420 Digital Media Solutions and the text code 420-420. In 2014, Maurer founded Moms for Yes on Measure 91 through grassroots efforts alone, which proved pivotal in adult-use legalization in Oregon. During that time, she also co-founded Show-Me Cannabis to help launch the legalization effort in Missouri. Maurer is a social justice activist at the core and hopes to see the end to the prohibition of cannabis globally.
With summer on the horizon, many of us are thinking about what kinds of travel plans we want to make for the summer. Many people choose to bring cannabis along with them, just as we would bring beer, wine, or snacks. Unfortunately, because of federal regulations, we cannot cross state lines or travel on airplanes with cannabis legally. However, since the passage of Amendment 3, Missouri residents and visitors have more freedom to enjoy cannabis within the state. Missouri law outlines clear guidelines on what is legal and what could land you in trouble.
If you are taking advantage of some of the beautiful places that the state of Missouri has to offer in your travels this summer, it is important to know how to travel with cannabis to avoid any mishaps during your vacation time. Whether you’ re planning a road trip across the state or just taking a short drive with cannabis in tow, here’ s everything you need to know about traveling with cannabis in Missouri, including the best products to bring, local regulations, and possession limits.
In Missouri, adults 21 and over are legally allowed to possess up to three ounces of dried, unprocessed cannabis( or its equivalent in other forms). If you are a medical marijuana patient, your possession limits are higher, depending on your prescription and medical status. State law outlines that you can drive with cannabis in your vehicle, but it must be stored properly( locked up). The cannabis should be sealed, out of reach of the driver, and not in use while driving. One simple practice for this is to keep your cannabis in its original dispensary packaging and store it in the trunk or a locked glove compartment.
Just like alcohol, driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and can result in DUI charges. Law enforcement officers may use field sobriety tests or request a blood test if they suspect impairment. Additionally, public consumption of cannabis is illegal, and using cannabis in your car while parked, even if you are not driving, is still considered public consumption. Ensure that you are in a safe and private place once you have arrived at your destination before consuming any cannabis during your travels. There are also a growing number of cannabis-friendly spaces.
As mentioned, no matter the circumstances, you cannot legally take cannabis across state lines, even if you are traveling to another state where cannabis is legal. While it may seem unjust or unfair, it is a federal regulation we must comply with. Also, if your cannabis packaging has been opened, you are considered to be traveling with an“ open container.” You must keep it in an area of the vehicle where the driver cannot easily access it, such as the trunk or a locked glove compartment.
While Missouri’ s state law allows cannabis possession and travel within the state, some cities and counties may enforce stricter regulations. Here is some general information about specific Missouri areas:
● Kansas City and St. Louis: These cities generally have somewhat more lenient policies regarding personal cannabis use. However, public consumption( openly) is strictly prohibited, and enforcement may vary depending on local law enforcement.
● Columbia and Springfield: These cities have decriminalized small amounts of cannabis but still enforce strict policies against public use and impaired driving. 12 May 2025